Kifaru Super Tarp with annex plus para stove.
Kifaru Super Tarp with annex plus para stove.
Last edited by jsbhike; 03-24-18 at 06:54.
I think tarps reach their maximum usefulness when you are also able to have a fire nearby. Maybe not as much in Summer, but I would be hard pressed to want to camp in an open sided tarp without a fire in the winter.
I have a DD 10x10 tarp, also with 16 tie outs rather than grommets, its very useful.
"Real men have always needed to know what time it is so they are at the airfield on time, pumping rounds into savages at the right time, etc. Being able to see such in the dark while light weights were comfy in bed without using a light required luminous material." -Originally Posted by ramairthree
If you like the tarp, just carry a tube-tent for rainy backup and put it underneath the tarp. For winter, unless you are on TV doing a hunting show, just get a cabin.
Similar effect from a poncho being used as a "tent." I carry two ponchos and a poncho liner in my car. Poncho liner and one poncho makes for an improvised sleeping bag and second poncho is the "tent" or tarp shelter. Head hole can be used for adjusting ventilation so you don't get too wet from condensation. The poncho and liner I'm using are from Wiggys. The liner has an insulated hood so you can wear it with the poncho over your clothes. Makes for a very warm outer layer.
As mentioned above, if you like tarps, take a hard look at Kifaru. I have a Paratarp and love it. Super light at 13.4oz, versatile, no silly bright fluorescent colors. Ultimate light weight 1 man + gear shelter.
Its a snug fit, but I've spent many nights sharing a Paratarp without an issue. We slid down far enough to the foot of the tarp to get our packs most of the way under the shelter and used the packs as a make shift door/wind and rain block. I put my packs rain cover on when doing this and have yet to get me or my gear wet. Do pay attention to wind direction though, blowing rain from the wrong direction can spell trouble. If you're bringing more gear than you can each fit in your respective packs, long hunting trips for example, you'll have to leave something out in the elements. Whether that is gear or your hunting partner is your choice
Or the Supertarp pictured above weighs just 4.2 ounces more (17.6oz) if you want or need a little more elbow room (and a bit lighter wallet).
But hey, were forgetting the ultimate reason for a tarp... you no longer have to actually get up to pee in the middle of the night!
Of all the shelters and improvised shelter material I've used, my favorite is the Marine issue tarp. For admin or fun purposes I'll grab one of my MSR sili-nylon tarps, but for hands-down bomb-proof, 4-season survivability, a MARPAT tarp and heavy duty space blanket is my go to. You can also make a great litter with it.
635506202203590009-00MARPAT01.jpg
"Real men have always needed to know what time it is so they are at the airfield on time, pumping rounds into savages at the right time, etc. Being able to see such in the dark while light weights were comfy in bed without using a light required luminous material." -Originally Posted by ramairthree
Looks like Coleman's Military Surplus has some, as does someone on Amazon and there's a few on eBay. A couple of blogs report there is a plethora of them in the surplus world.
"Real men have always needed to know what time it is so they are at the airfield on time, pumping rounds into savages at the right time, etc. Being able to see such in the dark while light weights were comfy in bed without using a light required luminous material." -Originally Posted by ramairthree
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